Easy Recipe Sweet and Sour Fish (Filipino Escabeche)

Filipino cuisine is a treasure trove of vibrant flavors and diverse influences. One of its standout dishes is Sweet and Sour Fish referred to as "Escabeche" in Tagalog. This flavorful dish is a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a beloved choice for gatherings or family dinners. Let's dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that brings a taste of Filipino culinary tradition to your kitchen.

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Jump to:

• Ingredients and Substitutions
• Tips for Choosing Fish
• Instructions
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage
• FAQ
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Ingredients and Substitutions

• Protein: Choose your preferred fish, like mackerel, tilapia, or sea bream, or opt for chicken pieces.
• Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers (red and green), carrots, and sometimes green beans or cauliflower florets.
• Vinegar: White vinegar or apple cider vinegar is commonly used in the marinade to give it that tangy flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Bay leaves, peppercorns, garlic, and sometimes paprika or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
• Oil: Olive oil or vegetable oil for sautéing the vegetables and marinating the fish or chicken.
• Optional Additions: Olives, capers, and sometimes sugar to balance the acidity of the vinegar.

For the Fish:

• 4-6 fish fillets (see list of options below)
• Salt and pepper for seasoning
• ½ cup all-purpose flour for dredging
• Cooking oil for frying (olive oil or safflower oil)

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium-sized carrot, julienned
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup sugar (white or brown sugar)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tablespoons water)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

See the recipe card for quantities.

Tips for Choosing Fish

• Firmness: Select fish that is firm to the touch and has a dense texture to withstand frying and simmering in the sauce without disintegrating.
• Freshness: Opt for fresh fish, preferably from a trusted source, to ensure the best taste and quality for your Escabeche.

Instructions

Prepare the Fish:

1. Pat dry the fish fillets and season them with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge each fillet in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. In a pan, heat cooking oil over medium heat.
4. Fry the fish until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

2. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

1. In a separate pan or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté garlic and onions until aromatic.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and julienned carrots. Stir-fry for a few minutes until they slightly soften but remain crisp.
4. Pour in the vinegar, water, sugar, soy sauce, and ketchup. Stir well to combine.
5. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the pineapple chunks and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
7. Slowly pour in the dissolved cornstarch, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.

3. Assemble the Dish:

1. Place the fried fish fillets on a serving dish.
2. Pour the sweet and sour sauce with vegetables and pineapple over the fish, ensuring they are generously coated.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions for added freshness and color.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet and Sour Fish (Escabeche) pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, allowing the flavors of the tangy sauce to complement the simplicity of the rice. For a complete meal, add a side of stir-fried vegetables or a crisp salad.

Storage

Storing leftover Sweet and Sour Fish (Escabeche) properly ensures its flavors remain intact and it stays healthy. Here are some tips for storing leftovers:

Refrigeration:

1. Cooling Down: Allow the leftover dish to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
2. Airtight Container: Transfer the Escabeche into an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from spreading in the fridge.
3. Separate Containers: If possible, store the fish separately from the sauce and vegetables to maintain the texture of the fish.
4. Labeling: Always label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Shelf Life:

Sweet and Sour Fish (Escabeche) can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. However, for optimal taste and texture, it's best to consume it within 2 days.

Reheating:

When reheating, use the following steps to preserve the flavors and texture:

1. Gentle Reheating: Place the fish in a pan with a little oil to gently reheat it. This helps retain its crispy texture.
2. Sauce Reheating: Reheat the sauce separately in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated.
3. Combining: Once the fish and sauce are reheated, briefly combine them in a pan to ensure the flavors meld together again without overcooking the fish.

Freezing:

While it's best consumed fresh, you can freeze Sweet and Sour Fish (Escabeche) for future consumption. Follow these steps:

1. Cooling: Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
2. Portioning: If possible, portion the Escabeche into meal-sized portions before freezing.
3. Freezer Bags or Containers: Place the fish and sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
4. Labeling: Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
5. Freezer Life: Sweet and Sour Fish can be frozen for the best quality for about 1-2 months.

Thawing and Reheating:

1. Thawing: Thaw the frozen Sweet and Sour Fish overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Reheating: Reheat gently following the steps mentioned earlier for refrigerated leftovers.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can extend the enjoyment of Sweet and Sour Fish, preserving its flavors and textures for later indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Filipino Sweet and Sour Fish is a testament to the country's culinary prowess, marrying different textures and flavors into a harmonious dish. Its balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes tantalizes taste buds and leaves a lasting impression. Whether shared with family or friends, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience that captures the heart of Filipino cuisine.

Give this easy Sweet and Sour Fish recipe a try and savor the vibrant flavors of the Philippines right in your home kitchen! Happy cooking!

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